Laterally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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laterally
[ˈleɪtərəli ]
Definition
position or direction
Laterally refers to something that is situated at the side or pertaining to the side of something. It often describes movement or position away from the midline of the body or object.
Synonyms
horizontally, sidelong, sideways.
Examples of usage
- The car moved laterally to avoid the obstacle.
- The muscles expand laterally when you stretch.
- The branches grow laterally from the trunk.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In anatomy, when a body part is described as moving laterally, it means it is moving away from the midline of the body.
- This term is often used in biology to describe the arrangement of various organs and structures, such as 'lateral roots' that grow out from the main root.
Geometry
- In geometry, laterally can refer to objects or lines that extend along the sides rather than in a vertical or horizontal direction.
- When describing shapes, laterally positioned elements can create a more dynamic visual appearance.
Pop Culture
- In sports like basketball, moving laterally is important for defensive maneuvers to keep up with opposing players.
- The term is used in dance genres such as hip-hop to describe side movements that add variety to performances.
Psychology
- In the context of cognitive psychology, lateral thinking encourages approaching problems from different angles, emphasizing creative solutions.
- Studies show that lateral movements during tasks may enhance cognitive flexibility, allowing individuals to think outside traditional patterns.
Origin of 'laterally'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'laterally' comes from the Latin word 'lateralis,' meaning 'belonging to the side.'
- The root 'latus' in Latin translates to 'side,' which is central to understanding how the term is used in different contexts.
The word 'laterally' is derived from the Latin word 'lateralis,' which means 'pertaining to the side.' The origin of 'lateralis' comes from 'latus,' meaning 'side' or 'flank.' The term has been used in English since the late 14th century to indicate something that is related to the side. It has been integrated into various fields, including anatomy, where it describes the lateral (side) parts of the body or structures in relation to the midline. Over the centuries, it has maintained its association with sideways orientation in both literal and metaphorical contexts.